Abidjan is mourning the loss of a towering figure in the African insurance sector, Maurice Digbeu Kipré, who passed away on Sunday, May 17, 2026, at the age of 75. Kipré, renowned as the president, CEO, and visionary founder of the Ivorian insurance firm Serenity, leaves behind an indelible legacy.
Kipré’s distinguished professional journey began in 1979 with American International Group (AIG), following his extensive education both in Côte d’Ivoire and the United States. His expertise quickly propelled him to prominence.
In 1988, he was entrusted with a significant role within the Ivorian government, serving as the Director of Insurance at the Ministry of Economy and Finance. This position further solidified his influence over the nation’s financial landscape.
His leadership extended to the regional stage in 1993 when he joined CICA-RE, an organization he skillfully guided until early 2008. Demonstrating his entrepreneurial spirit, Kipré then embarked on a new venture in November of the same year, establishing his own insurance company, Serenity, which quickly became a notable entity in the West African market.
Beyond his corporate achievements, Maurice Digbeu Kipré was recognized as an emblematic personality across the African insurance landscape. His commitment to the industry was evident through his active participation in numerous key organizations. He served as a respected member of the Commission Régionale de Contrôle de la CIMA, contributed to the executive committee of the Organisation Africaine des Assurances (OAA), held a position on the executive bureau of the Fédération des Sociétés d’Assurances de Droit National Africaines (FANAF), and was a valued member of the board of directors for the Institut International des Assurances de Yaoundé (IIA).